Share the road with farm vehicles
Did you know there are over 600 farms in York Region? Our local farmers are the backbone of a vibrant agricultural sector, keeping food on our plates and supporting healthy communities.
From May to October, you will see farm vehicles on roads as farmers move from field to field, day and night. This may lead to temporary delays on some roads because of slow-moving farm machinery.
Orange triangle emblems on the back of a vehicle indicate it’s a slow-moving vehicle. Most farm equipment travels under 40 km/hr and has the slow-moving vehicle sign on the back of the machinery.
When you see a farm vehicle:
- Slow down
- Maintain a safe distance between you and farm vehicles and do not pass until it is safe to do so
- Farm vehicles don’t always have brake lights or turn signals and operators may not always be visible to give hand signals
- Large vehicles need extra space to stop and turn and have many blind spots; be aware that farmers may not be able to see you
- Watch out for left turns. Be aware that farmers sometimes need to make wide turns. If a tractor swings to the right, be careful, it may be starting a left turn
- Be patient and understanding so farmers can do their important work for our local community
Tips for safely passing farm vehicles:
- Only pass if it's safe to do so
- Watch for oncoming traffic and wait for a clear passing zone
- Never take a chance by passing on a curve or hill
- When finished passing, don't stop or slow down in front of the farm vehicle. Large equipment can't brake as quickly as a car
- Do not pass farm machinery at intersections. Vehicles may turn without the ability to signal or see traffic behind them
Every time you see a farm vehicle, remember it’s a positive sign of fresh, local food!
By sharing the road, you’re not just driving safely, you’re supporting local farmers in their essential work and supporting your community!
For more road safety tips and information, visit york.ca/TrafficSafety
